In section: General introduction or billing for placement of head frame, KarenZupko...
Is it possible to report the code 20660 for the application of cranial tongs during an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion procedure?During the case, the surgeon documented the application and removal of the tongs.
Thank you for your inquiry.The correct code for cranial tongs is 20660.The full definition is "Application of cranial tongs, caliper, or stereotactic frame, including removal".The code has a separate procedure designation.This means that the work associated with this code is part of a larger procedure.This means that the codes 20660 and 22551 are not reportable with each other.tongs or head holders are used.Any spine procedure is included in the positioning of the head.
The lay description published in Encoder Pro includes the work of applying skull traction tongs, which precludes the surgeon from reporting the ACDF procedure code.
The codes associated with halo application can be reported if the halo is applied as a stand-alone procedure or if it's applied for longer term stabilization.